What Google considers automated traffic

Using software that sends searches to Google to see how a website or webpage ranks on Google

What to do when you see this message

The error page most likely shows a reCAPTCHA. To continue using Google, solve the reCAPTCHA. It's how we know you're a human, not a robot. After you solve the reCAPTCHA, the message will go away and you can use Google again.

Common issues

Check for malware on your computer. Malware is malicious software that can be installed on your computer without your knowledge. Some malware can cause Google to show this message. Learn how to detect and remove malware.

Contact your network administrator. If you share a Wi-Fi network with others, like at a school or business, another computer in your network might be sending automated searches to Google. Your network administrator or IT professional might be able to locate and stop the source of the problem.

Reset your modem or router. If you don't have a network administrator, try resetting your modem or router to see if that fixes the issue.

Once the automated searches have stopped, you should be able to search normally on Google.

The blocking might be related to your use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) browser plugin or program. You might try uninstalling the VPN from your computer or network and see if that makes a difference.

Some VPNs send traffic that violates the law or websites' terms of service. If you're an Internet Service Provider (ISP), explain to your users why they should uninstall these VPNs. When the abuse to Google's network stops, we automatically stop blocking the IP(s)/ISP(s) that were sending the bad traffic.

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Aaron is a Search expert and author of this help page. Leave him feedback below about the page.